The Dance Center of Old Lyme

For families and individuals across Connecticut, particularly those in the scenic shoreline region, The Dance Center of Old Lyme stands as a truly exceptional destination for dance education. This esteemed studio is celebrated for its commitment to providing a refreshing and enriching dance experience for students of all ages and abilities. Whether your child is just beginning their dance journey or an experienced dancer looking to refine their technique, The Dance Center of Old Lyme offers a supportive and encouraging environment where every student is not only taught steps but is also nurtured to reach their full potential. Many local parents have found this studio to be a wonderful place where their children flourish, developing not just dance skills but also confidence, discipline, and a lifelong passion for the art form.

The philosophy at The Dance Center of Old Lyme is deeply rooted in fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Reviews consistently highlight the "wonderful, nurturing environment where every student is encouraged and respected." This commitment to individual growth and positive reinforcement sets the studio apart. Led by dedicated faculty, including Director Tiffany Oltjenbruns and founder Bethany Haslam, the center aims to help students "challenge themselves to the next level" while ensuring they feel safe, valued, and free to explore their artistry. This holistic approach to dance education, combining rigorous training with a strong emphasis on personal well-being, makes The Dance Center of Old Lyme a cherished part of the Connecticut arts community. It’s a place where children and adults alike can truly thrive and fall in love with dancing.

The Dance Center of Old Lyme is conveniently located at 19 Halls Rd #106, Old Lyme, CT 06371, USA. This accessible address makes it a prime choice for families residing in Old Lyme, as well as those commuting from neighboring towns along the Connecticut shoreline, including Lyme, Old Saybrook, Westbrook, Clinton, East Lyme, and Niantic. Its position on Halls Road ensures straightforward navigation, making drop-offs and pick-ups a seamless experience for busy parents. The studio's proximity to major routes and local amenities adds to its convenience, allowing families to easily integrate dance classes into their daily schedules.

Being situated within the heart of Old Lyme allows The Dance Center to foster a strong connection with its local community. This integration provides a welcoming and familiar environment for students and their families, enhancing the overall experience. The ease of access helps ensure consistent attendance, which is crucial for continuous progress in dance. For many Connecticut locals, the ability to access high-quality dance instruction within their own community, without extensive travel, is a significant advantage, reinforcing The Dance Center of Old Lyme's standing as a highly suitable and preferred choice for dance education.

The Dance Center of Old Lyme offers a comprehensive array of services and classes designed to cater to a wide range of ages, skill levels, and dance interests. Their diverse curriculum ensures that every student can find a program that excites and challenges them.

• Ballet & Pointe: Foundational to many dance forms, ballet classes focus on classical technique, grace, strength, and flexibility, with pointe work offered to advanced students.
• Tap: Emphasizing rhythm and percussive footwork, tap classes provide a fun and energetic way to develop musicality and coordination.
• Jazz: Dynamic and expressive, jazz classes combine various styles with a focus on sharp movements, leaps, turns, and improvisation.
• Contemporary: This expressive style blends elements of ballet, modern, and jazz, encouraging fluidity, emotional depth, and individual artistry.
• Hip Hop: Popular for its energetic and modern appeal, hip hop classes focus on rhythm, street dance styles, and dynamic movement.
• Musical Theatre: Combining dance, acting, and singing, these classes prepare students for the stage, focusing on performance skills and storytelling through movement.
• Classes for All Ages and Levels: From preschool-aged children (often in "combo classes" that introduce multiple styles) to teens and adults, the studio offers classes tailored to various developmental stages and experience levels. Adult classes, including adult tap and yoga, are also available, ensuring dance remains accessible throughout life.
• Summer Programs: The studio offers summer intensives and "Pop Ups" for various dance styles, providing opportunities for concentrated learning and continued practice during the summer months.

What truly makes The Dance Center of Old Lyme a standout choice for Connecticut locals are its unique features and highlights, which consistently resonate with and receive high praise from its student body and their families.

• Exceptional and Nurturing Teachers: Reviews consistently highlight that "the teachers are top notch" and create a "nurturing environment." Instructors are celebrated for helping students "challenge themselves to the next level" and for their ability to foster a deep love for dance. Bethany, the founder, and Tiffany, the director, are specifically mentioned for their positive impact.
• Welcoming and Respectful Atmosphere: The studio is described as "very welcoming," where "every student is encouraged and respected." This inclusive environment is vital, especially for new students, ensuring they feel comfortable and supported from their very first class.
• Strong Community and Family Feel: Testimonials indicate a strong sense of belonging, with the studio feeling like a "family." This means students are supported by both staff and peers, contributing to a positive and motivating learning experience.
• Student Enjoyment and Progress: Parents consistently report that their "kids love dancing" and "learn a lot." This indicates that classes are not only educational but also enjoyable, leading to consistent attendance and noticeable skill development.
• Diverse Class Offerings for All Ages: The wide range of styles, from ballet to hip hop, and classes for all age groups (from preschoolers to adults), ensures that the studio caters to diverse interests and provides a comprehensive dance education journey.
• Experienced Leadership: Under the direction of Tiffany Oltjenbruns, who has extensive training and experience, and founded by Bethany Haslam, the studio benefits from strong, knowledgeable leadership committed to a positive and progressive dance education.

For Connecticut residents interested in joining The Dance Center of Old Lyme community, enrolling in classes, or inquiring about specific programs, contacting the studio is straightforward and convenient.

Address: 19 Halls Rd #106, Old Lyme, CT 06371, USA

Phone: (860) 434-1664

Mobile Phone: +1 860-434-1664

Prospective and current students and their families are encouraged to call the Old Lyme studio directly during business hours. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist with questions regarding class schedules for the upcoming dance season, registration details, tuition fees, and information on any special workshops or summer programs. This direct line of communication ensures that all inquiries are handled efficiently, making the process of beginning or continuing your dance journey with The Dance Center of Old Lyme seamless and welcoming for anyone in the Connecticut area. You can also explore their website for more information on their offerings.

For locals across Connecticut, especially those living along the beautiful shoreline, The Dance Center of Old Lyme stands as an outstanding and highly suitable choice for dance education. Its accessible location in Old Lyme, combined with a comprehensive curriculum spanning various dance genres for all ages and skill levels, offers unmatched convenience and a rich learning environment. The consistent, glowing reviews from parents underscore the studio's commitment to a "wonderful, nurturing environment" where "every student is encouraged and respected" by "top-notch" teachers. This strong sense of community, where students "love dancing" and feel truly welcomed, ensures that The Dance Center of Old Lyme is more than just a place to learn steps – it's a place where individuals blossom, build confidence, and become part of a supportive "family." If you're in Connecticut and seeking a dance studio that prioritizes both artistic excellence and holistic personal growth in a truly welcoming atmosphere, The Dance Center of Old Lyme is highly recommended to help you or your child discover and nurture a lifelong love for dance.

You can get a sense of the dynamic environment and performance capabilities of a dance studio through videos like (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-IzuNLVSDQ).

The Dance Center of Old Lyme

19 Halls Rd #106, Old Lyme, CT 06371, USA